Religious Schools Surge in Afghanistan, Leaving Modern Education Behind

The expansion of religious schools in Afghanistan has led to a decrease in access to modern education. Students’ narratives reflect their dissatisfaction with the current situation.

Expansion of Religious Schools and Decline in Access to Modern Education in Afghanistan

In the past five years, Afghanistan has witnessed a significant rise in the number of religious schools. Concerns have grown over the diminishing access to modern and vocational education in the country.

Approximately 21,000 Religious Schools Active in Afghanistan

Zabihullah Mujahid, the spokesperson for the Taliban government, announced that around 21,000 religious schools supervised by the Ministry of Education are currently operational, with nearly 2.5 million students enrolled.

Hamza: My Dream is to Become a Doctor or Engineer, Not a Cleric

Hamza, a 13-year-old boy from Nangarhar, reflects on his two years of schooling, stating, “I studied for two years in school; however, I was later sent to a religious school, while I wanted to become a doctor or an engineer.” He adds that scientific subjects are not taught at his school.

Religious Education as an Option for Girls Denied Conventional Schooling

Some families choose religious education as an option for their daughters. Nasreen, a 14-year-old girl, has been engaged in religious studies for two years due to being barred from continuing her education. She expresses, “I would be happy if subjects like biology and chemistry were included.”

Challenges in Afghanistan’s Educational System: Where Have the Scientific Subjects Gone?

Although religious schools in the past offered instruction in scientific subjects, this balance has since been disrupted. Mujib Mehrdad, spokesperson for the Ministry of Education, states that the curriculum should encompass both areas, but the current situation poses significant challenges.